Family issues and the pandemic forced Choe to step away from music
for some time. When she returned, Choe met vibraphonist Yuhan
Su and established a strong friendship and musical rapport. The two
began meeting on Sundays and holding impromptu sessions to orchestrate
a language between their piano and vibes.
The inspiring work with Su began to make Choe consider recording a
duo album. Then an old friend, the Berlin-based vocalist Song Yi
Jeon, informed Choe that she would soon be coming to New York for
some projects. This surprise opportunity sparked Choe to rearrange a
number of her pieces for this unique setting of keyboards, vibes, and
voice. Once Song Yi did arrive, the trio conducted a handful of rehearsals
before they went into the studio at Acoustic Recording in Brooklyn
on September 21, 2023.
The pieces that Choe wrote reflect on what it means to be a human in
this topsy turvy world and reflects on how Choe herself overcame
her own vulnerability through perseverance to find her strength. To tell
the story, Choe introduces Margie, an imaginary girl who personifies
Choe and her struggles.